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India Out Of WTC Final? What If Rohit, Kohli And Co Lose MCG Test vs Australia

India might lose the MCG Test vs Australia [Source: AP]India might lose the MCG Test vs Australia [Source: AP]

India sustained their underwhelming run in the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, as Australia dominated the Boxing Day Test, outclassing their opponents with a clinical all-round effort. After winning the toss and opting to bat first, the hosts posted a mammoth 474-run total, thanks to batting masterclasses from Sam Konstas, Steve Smith, Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne. 

In response, India lost their captain Rohit Sharma early before KL Rahul was castled by an absolute ripper from Pat Cummins. Although Yashasvi Jaiswal and Virat Kohli steadied the ship with a valiant stand, the former's disastrous runout dismissal opened the floodgates for the visitors, as the Aussies claimed the driving seat with regular strikes. 

As a result, India are reeling on 232 for seven in their first innings, set to concede a huge lead to their opponents. In such a scenario, the chance of India's crushing defeat is significantly high, and with their WTC final ambitions at stake, this loss will significantly jolt their hopes. 

Can India Qualify For WTC Final Even After Losing MCG Test?

Talking about the World Test Championship standings, South Africa claim the top position with a PCT of 63.33. The Proteas are currently playing against Pakistan at home and if they win the first Test, it will help them boost their PCT to 66.67. 

On the other hand, if India lose the MCG Test, their PCT will be dropped from 55.88 to 52.78, while Australia's PCT will be increased from 58.89 to 61.45. So, first of all, India must ensure a victory in the final BGT Test at SCG, as a potential win will boost their PCT to 55.26. Meanwhile, if Australia lose the Sydney Test, their PCT will drop down to 57.84. 

Thus, India will have a genuine chance to pip Australia and qualify for the WTC final if they win the SCG Test and hope a winless series for the defending WTC champions in Sri Lanka. In fact, if Sri Lanka secure at least one win and draw the other Test, Australia's PCT will be reduced to 53.50, which is lesser than India's if the latter ensure a victory at SCG. 

So, India won't be out of WTC final race even if they lose in Melbourne. However, it will require a rigorous effort from the Men in Blue as things will get only tougher for them with each day.